🦈 Paddleboarding in the UK: Should You Worry About Shark Attacks?
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Paddleboarding is one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities in the UK — and for good reason. It's peaceful, easy to learn, and lets you explore some of the country’s most beautiful lakes, rivers, and coastlines.
But with the sport’s growing popularity has come a recurring question:
“Are there sharks in UK waters — and should I be worried when paddleboarding?”
Let’s set the record straight.
🧭 Are There Sharks in the UK?
Yes — there are more than 40 species of shark that visit or live in UK waters. Most are small, shy, and completely harmless to humans.
A few examples include:
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Dogfish and catsharks (bottom dwellers, common around coasts)
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Tope sharks (migratory and non-aggressive)
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Basking sharks (the UK’s largest shark — up to 10 metres long — but feeds only on plankton!)
Some pelagic (open ocean) species like blue sharks and porbeagles are seen further offshore, usually by anglers or divers, not coastal paddlers.
🦈 So... Are Shark Attacks a Risk in the UK?
The short answer: almost zero.
Here are the facts:
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According to the Shark Trust, there have been no unprovoked shark attacks on humans in UK waters in recorded history.
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Most UK shark species are timid and avoid humans altogether.
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The UK’s cooler waters, rocky coastlines, and tidal shifts make paddleboarder-shark interactions extremely unlikely.
Even in known basking shark hotspots like Cornwall or the west coast of Scotland, these gentle giants pose no threat.
🌊 Why People Still Worry
Sharks get a lot of bad press, and Hollywood hasn’t helped. But in the real world:
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Dogs, cows, and even vending machines cause more deaths per year than sharks worldwide.
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Most “shark” sightings in the UK turn out to be harmless marine life or exaggerations.
That said, it's natural to feel uneasy in open water — especially if you're new to paddleboarding. So how can you feel more confident?
✅ Safety Tips for Paddleboarding in the Sea
While sharks aren’t a concern, here are a few smart steps for any ocean paddle session:
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Check conditions: Avoid strong currents, offshore winds, or fog.
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Stick to popular areas: Paddle near beaches, coves, or lifeguard-patrolled zones.
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Wear a leash and buoyancy aid: Helps you stay attached to your board and visible.
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Avoid dusk or dawn paddles in deep offshore areas if you're nervous (though again, UK shark risk is near-zero).
Most importantly, stay aware — not afraid.
🏄 Final Thoughts: Sharks Shouldn’t Keep You Off the Water
Paddleboarding in the UK is extremely safe, with far more risk from tides, winds, and cold water than any wildlife encounter.
If you’re lucky enough to spot a basking shark, seal, or dolphin on your paddle — enjoy it! These rare moments make the experience even more special.
So, go ahead. Explore those coastal inlets, peaceful bays, and scenic estuaries. Just remember your wetsuit, sunscreen — and maybe your Wiffee air freshener for the drive home.
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